THERE’S a buzz at Farnham Scouts as numbers continue to rise, however the club is calling on more people to come forward and take on the role of leaders,

The latest figures show numbers increasing over 2015 from 845 to 980, if all the un-uniformed helpers are counted, Farnham has well over 1,000 members.

Last year saw the formation of two new Beaver Colonies, one new Cub pack, one new Scout Troop and an Explorer unit. The existing units generally increased in number including the Network unit, of 18 to 25 year olds, who benefit from students at universities in term time and returning students out of term.

Scouting has more than 28,000,000 youth members, world-wide and is represented in all but six countries so Farnham is a small part of a great world-wide organisation – 2015 also saw Farnham send three young people to Japan, for the World Jamboree and groups have recently visited Spain and Switzerland.

Farnham District Scouts have a seven-acre campsite bordering the River Wey in Tilford, which was purchased 30 years ago for £3,000, a lot of money in those days.

The site is now able to host Scout groups from all over the UK, as well as Duke of Edinburgh and other youth groups. The site has a climbing wall, a new shooting range, archery, orienteering, a river and lots of places to make fires, sleep in hammocks and do lots of adventurous stuff.

It is sad though that Farnham has to turn away children who want to join the adventure. The chance to learn how to tie a reef knot, light a fire without matches, sleep in a hammock, climb a mountain or go to a Jamboree in Japan can only be given if Farnham gets more leaders.

The leaders also get the chance to do all those activities and have lots of fun. Though it is time consuming, at least a couple of hours a week, leaders get a whole lot out of the fun and rewarding experience.

The Scouting movement is also looking fo find a new district commissioner as Philip German who has served for the last 16 years has decided it is time for him to step down.

Mr German said: “It has been a great privilege to serve as DC and be involved with all the young people and their fantastic leaders. It’s sad to be going, but my time has come.”

Farnham Scouting is therefore looking for a replacement for Philip, it’s a big job, but the rewards are great and the right person will ensure Scouting offers an enjoyable and attractive programme to the young people in the area.

The district is looking within their own movement and also within the local community outside Scouting. Farnham Scouting is keen to hear from local people and if anyone knows someone suitable or would like to considered for the post themselves, they are invited to contact the district chairman, Manda Bragg, at [email protected].